Investors will be keen to find out more about the ongoing situation between Friends Provident and Resolution Group this week.

Fp reveals results on Tuesday and Nick Raynor, investment adviser at The Share Centre, said: "We know FP walked away from a possible takeover offer, but there may still be embers burning over a potential deal. News on its dividend policy will also be welcomed."

On the same day Interconti- nentais expected to give an update on the hotel industry.

Whitbread and its Premier Inns have been suffering and much the same is expected from the owners of the Holiday Inn and luxury hotel chain.

International Power will also update the market with interim figures, which are expected to be in-line with expectations.

Concerns over the need for refiancing are dissipating, but if there is further news on this issue, it would be a huge disappointment.

Further news reports talks between BHP Billiton and China's leading ore importers have broken down would be welcomed on Wednesday.

Weaker commodity prices during the first half of this year may have affected BHP's profits and investors will be interested to hear if lower negotiated contracts affect full-year earnings figures.

Balfour Beatty has not announced many new contracts over the last three months. Investors may be hoping for news on potential deals when the construction company announces its interim figures next week.

All eyes again will be on Prudential next week as to whether the insurer decides to cut its dividend. Raynor said: "We feel Prudential are better placed to continue with its dividend policy, but they may take advantage of others' failures to reduce costs."